Written on March 30, 2010 by Jaima Brown

Acanthus Style

Symbolism of Pattern Series #2

Acanthus is one of the oldest flowers of the Mediterranean which is believed to be the symbol of long life. These ornamental luscious leaves have influenced designs for hundreds of years and played an important roll in architecture, fabrics, furniture,  and paper designs. In Architecture it is defined as a carved ornament based on the leaves of the acanthus plant, found on the capital of a Corinthian column.

The leaves were often used in  art and  architecture of ancient Greece and Rome and have frequently been used throughout history  in the famous  “Corinthian capital”.

According to the architectural historian Vitruvius, the column was created by the sculptor Callimachus, probably an Athenian, who drew acanthus leaves growing around a votive basket. Well, we have come a long way when one looks at how we  have been incorporated this beautiful leaf shape  into today’s architecture in New York and around the world.
As the Acanthus is one of the oldest flowers of the Mediterranean area, some believe it is the symbol of  long life. A famous English wallpaper designer, William Morris popularized the  stylized leaf amongst royalty and citizens.  He was extremely influential in  the Arts and Crafts movement during the 20th century. It all started when Morris commissioned a new house to be built in 1859 but could not find any textiles and furniture in the simple vernacular style he wanted to decorate his  new home; so he decided to design them himself. His company was called Morris and Company and he dreamed of  re-establishing traditional craftsmanship with simplicity of design. He designed many diverse items such as stained glass, wallpaper, furniture and textiles. His designs often incorporated floral and foliage motifs.  The Acanthus was extremely prominent in his wallpaper and textile  designs making it extremely  popular with his wealthy clients and the masses.


Because of the Acanthus popularity  in design and architecture, it  was often incorporated into a wide range of products and interiors over the  next centuries. The actual leaf shape has evolved into being known as the “Scroll.” A flowing leaf trail that is easy to live with and has been designed into many fashion items  like shoes, bags, jewelry, furniture, bowls, watering cans, wallpaper, lighting, moldings and many other  interior products.

We love this acanthus leaf design as it reflects style, endurance and elegance. It is especially stylish when used in wallpaper and fabric designs.  William Morris would have loved this Carlise acanthus scroll wallpaper pattern as it is simple and elegant yet still hints of a traditional past. A perfect transitional design.

No wonder it means eternal life! The Acanthus design never goes out of style! Enjoy.

Images Via: Jaimabrownhome.com;wikipedia.org;kaboodle.com;zazzle.com;buffaloah.com;mydeco.com

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2 Responses to “Acanthus Style”

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